Big-Day Beauty: Choosing the right eye makeup

They say the eyes are the window to the soul, so on your wedding day it's understandable you want them to have as pretty a pane as possible. Makeup artist Leisa Welch fills us in on how to pack your makeup bag with a winning team of tools.

Story by Photo Rob Hart/Shadowlands

They say the eyes are the window to the soul, so on your wedding day it's understandable you want them to have as pretty a pane as possible. Makeup artist Leisa Welch fills us in on how to pack your makeup bag with a winning team of tools.

EyeshadowThe options: Cream, powder, pencil• The beauty of a palette is the tonal range it offers. Seamless blending is essential when accentuating your eyes. Start with the darkest colour along the lash line and blend it upwards, gradually lightening the tone. Finally, use the palest colour or white to highlight your brow bone.• Create a bright-eyed effect with a double-ended eyeshadow pencil. Apply the light shade on the inner corners to open up the eyes, then use the darker colour on the outer third of your lid to add depth, blending the shades together in the middle.Shimmering powders add a sparkle to your eye, but less is more. Too much product can accentuate fine lines.• If you have dry skin opt for cream eyeshadow rather than powder. It will minimise imperfections and diminish the appearance of flaky skin.

EyelinerThe options: Liquid, gel, pencil• Create a smudge-proof base for your liner by applying a thin layer of foundation over your lid and dusting it lightly with powder. • Resist the urge to pull your skin taut when lining your eyes – when you let go, the line will look distorted.• Liquid liner requires precision and a steady hand. For a look that’s easier to master, add definition with a gel or pencil liner and smudge the line for a smoky effect – any mistakes can be erased with a cotton bud dipped in makeup remover.• Remember this rule of thumb: The line above the lashes should be three times thicker than under the eye.

MascaraThe options: Lengthening, curling, thickening• To make eyes appear wider, curl your lashes before applying mascara or apply false lashes. • Waterproof or water-resistant formulas will help prevent smears – a must for teary-eyed brides.• Build length and volume by applying two coats of mascara. Start with a light coat, allow it to dry; then add the second coat. • To achieve show-stopping lashes without the clumping, comb them gently between each application.• Finally, check the eye area for unsightly smudges – wipe them away using a cotton bud dipped in oil-free eye makeup remover.